On 20 November, the European Commission adopted its annual proposal on next year’s guide prices for fresh and frozen fisheries products as well as the Community producer price for tuna for processing.
The Commission proposes to raise guide prices for the majority of white fish species such as saithe and haddock by between 0.5 % and 3 %. However, there will be decreases of the same order for other white fish species, notably cod and spotted dogfish.
The market for pelagic species was mixed during the reference period. The Commission is therefore proposing increases for herring (+3 %), mackerel and anchovies (+2 %), Spanish mackerel (+1.5 %), and reductions for albacore (-1.5%) and sardines (-2%).
For most crustaceans there are small increases (0.5 to 2 %), with the exception of shrimps (-3 %). For frozen products, the proposal reflects decreasing prices on the international markets. However, increased prices are proposed for Greenland halibut, prawns and Illex (between 1.5 and 3 %). Finally, the Commission proposes to increase the Community producer price for tuna products by 1.5 %.
The Commission proposals are based on Member States' average market prices over the previous three years. Other important factors also taken into account include trends in production and market demand, the interests of consumers and the need to avoid withdrawals of fisheries products from the market.
To see the full table including 2006 and proposed 2007 prices, please follow this link: http://ec.europa.eu/fisheries/press_corner/press_releases/com06_83_en.htm
